Sex machines are definitely the Big Thing at the moment. Nowadays, it seems that almost every adult store carries as least one type or style of these robotic pleasure devices. I decided to take a closer look at what the appeal is and why customers are willing to splurge on these big-ticket devices.
Sex machines may also be especially relevant right now due to the current COVID-19 lockdown. Many people are stuck at home alone. The dating scene has gone out of the window as it’s simply too unsafe to meet with others. These machines can replace a partner to an extent, providing stimulation that’s similar to a partnered experience. They can also become an addition in a relationship, enhancing pleasure and allowing couples to experience new things like double penetration.
These machines can replace a partner to an extent, providing stimulation that’s similar to a partnered experience.
Sex machines come in all shapes and sizes, but can generally be categorized into four types: ride-on machines like the Sybian, thrusting machines like the F-Machine Pro III, handheld thrusting machines like the Lovebotz Orgasm Ball and masturbation machines like the Venus 2000. The ideal choice for a customer depends on what sensation they are looking to feel ...
The different types of sex machine
Though men can use them too, ride-on machines are generally for women. The user sits on top and straddles the device, like sitting on a horse’s saddle. These machines are designed to thrust, twist and vibrate over the most sensitive areas to produce mind-blowing — and often multiple — orgasms.
Thrusting machines are exactly that. Their primary function is to thrust at various speeds, back and forth, giving the user an intense but controllable fuck. Handheld devices are similar to thrusting machines, except they are generally lighter and more portable and often less powerful.
Masturbation devices are generally built for men and involve inserting the penis into a tube, which moves up and down the shaft, creating a stroking motion. Depending on whether the tube is custom-built for the user or a general “one size fits all” receiver, the sensations can be anything from mild to incredibly intense.
So, now that we’ve explained the different types, what is it that is so appealing about sex machines?
The price
I'm not going to sit here and pretend that everyone could own their own sex machine. These things are not cheap.
Think about this: your friend has a Ferrari parked in their garage. You walk past one day, and it’s in the driveway, glistening in the sunlight, not a mark on it. Then they jump in and give it a rev. Most of us would be in awe, and maybe a teeny bit jealous.
For many people who are proud to talk about their sexuality, a sex machine is kind of a statement piece. The more expensive and luxurious the brand, the more in awe we are of them. This works for most consumer products like cars, clothing and jewelry, and it certainly works in the adult industry too!
But remember, price also often means that there are more features like variable speeds, adjustable depth or more powerful motors, and the quality may be better. Let’s face it, most people who want to buy a sex machine aren’t buying it to “test” it to see if they like it. They are generally looking for a good, hard fuck or endless hours of being wanked over and over, so they will invest in something that is built to last and can be repaired, too.
The experience
My final and probably biggest selling point is that it is a machine. Simple. It has no feelings, and no desires. It is programmed to do what it is told. It won’t slow down. It won’t get tired. It shows no mercy and will not relent. Like the Terminator, but in a good way.
A lot of sex machine users will use incorporate them as part of a BDSM scene, where they tie up their partner and then use the machine to provide blissful pleasure to their captive. A thrusting sex machine is the perfect BDSM accessory because it’s powerful motions will continue nonstop. The machine doesn’t act like a partner. It won’t listen to the moans and screams of pleasure. It won’t stop when the user is begging for mercy. It will just continue until it thrusts the user into orgasmic bliss, and then still carry on.
So although sex machines can be expensive, there is certainly a market for these robotic lovers. Personally, I totally understand the appeal of them being relentless in their operation and I can understand why people crave that sense of helplessness and vulnerability. What could be better than acting out your own kidnap roleplay where you become tied down and fucked or wanked mercilessly for hours and hours on end?
If that's your thing, sex machines are the pleasure products industry's way of saying, "Oh, there's an app for that."
Daniel Miller has worked in the industry for over 10 years and specializes in adult retail and wholesale. As well as working in this sector, he is also a DJ and producer, keen photographer and is the proud owner of two chinchillas, a chocolate Labrador and his husband, Dave.
